From the vibrant streets of Soweto to the boardrooms of Warner Music, Vusi Leeuw's management philosophy has shaped the careers of South Africa's most iconic artists. In this landmark conversation, we sit down with the visionary executive who guided Mandoza to legendary status, helped build TKZee into cultural icons, and pioneered management strategies that defined the kwaito era.
From pioneering kwaito to managing some of Africa's biggest crossover talents, Vusi has mastered the art of entertainment management across multiple industries. His journey spans beyond music, extending his talent management vision to guide the careers of actress Nomzamo Mbatha and multimedia star Boity Thulo.
With roots in Soweto, a legal education from Wits University, and a journey spanning from campus radio to executive roles at Sony Music, EMI, and 999 Records alongside Arthur Mafokate, Vusi reveals the universal management principles that built South African entertainment.
Key Conversation Points:
The birth of kwaito: Management decisions that created a genreThe Mandoza blueprint: Strategic career building that created a legendCross-industry management: Translating music success to film and televisionTalent identification: The science behind discovering tomorrow's starsContract negotiations: How his legal background transformed artist dealsCrisis management and brand protectionThe Moshito legacy: Creating platforms for talent developmentHis Warner Music vision: The future of African music managementMusic as advocacy: Using entertainment as a vehicle for social change
Music managers and entertainment executivesArtists seeking career development insightsIndustry professionals across music, film, and televisionStudents of South African entertainment historyAspiring talent managers and A&R professionalsAdvocates interested in cultural change through art
This episode provides practical insights into music management, artist development, and legacy building in South Africa's evolving entertainment industry.
Guest: Vusi Leeuw Pioneer of Kwaito Management Former Executive at Sony Music, EMI, & 999 Records Current A&R Manager at Warner Music
Follow Us: Host: @ntando_zikalala_ Show: @morethanmanagement_ Agency: @tothemaxmanagement